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Choosing from the long list of compact trucks today is a difficult task. There are many available from different automakers, each with advantages over others. That’s why we turn to experts like Kelley Blue Book to discover the best models to buy each year. For 2023, KBB’s best buy in the compact truck category is the 2023 Ford Maverick. What makes this Ford small pickup better than its competition?
KBB’s best compact truck buy of 2023
According to Kelley Blue Book, the compact truck best bought in 2023 is the 2023 Ford Maverick. The publication says it does in just about every category you’d expect for a small pickup pickup.
“With nearly 500 miles of range, the hybrid Maverick bests even the most fuel-efficient subcompact. But it’s capable of hauling a 1,500-pound payload and towing up to 2,000 pounds – or 4,000 with all-gas powertrain.”
It’s hard to argue with some of the best things about Maverick. When it beats smaller cars on price and fuel economy but remains a serviceable compact truck, there’s no limit to what the Maverick can do. In the compact truck category (not midsize), it’s easy to choose the Ford option over the Hyundai. Not only are buyers and reviewers quick to choose a proven pickup veteran like the Ford over the Hyundai, but the Santa Cruz is more expensive and less fuel efficient.
The 2023 Ford Maverick is affordable
The best thing about the 2023 Ford Maverick is its affordability. The starting price is one of the main reasons why it usually sells out in the better part of two years. It’s no secret, and it certainly played a part in it earning the compact truck best buy of 2023 from KBB. With destination charges, the base Maverick XL model starts at $22,195. However, opting for the more powerful, non-hybrid drivetrain with all-wheel drive costs another $2,220.
Alternatively, the mid-tier XLT trim is around $24,500, while the range-topping Lariat is $28,000. Buyers can also choose the Tremor off-road package for $3,000 or $4,500 for the Tremor appearance package as well. Overall in every package, the Maverick is still surprisingly affordable. Its closest rival is the Hyundai Santa Cruz, which starts under $30,000, but it’s quickly surpassed. For a mid-tier and range-topping compact truck from Hyundai, buyers will fork over $40,000.
The best compact truck to buy is fuel-efficient
The final reason the 2023 Ford Maverick is Kelley Blue Book’s compact truck best buy of 2023 is its fuel economy. In addition to its low starting price, the standard hybrid powertrain is the main reason for being sold out. Buyers love the idea of a pickup truck with some capability without hurting their wallet at the fuel pump. The standard hybrid powertrain is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, creating 191 horsepower. Impressively, it gets 42 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
Opting for the upgraded engine swaps out the hybrid for a gas-only turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder. It makes 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque but lacks efficiency. The EPA estimate for this unit is 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. While decent for a pickup, it’s worse than the standard hybrid option.
KBB’s best buy of compact trucks is the Ford Maverick
In conclusion, the best buy of 2023 for the compact truck segment from KBB is the 2023 Ford Maverick. Unsurprisingly, Maverick has continued to garner awards over the past few years. With great value, fuel economy, and even some pickup truck prowess, the Maverick doesn’t do much. In the compact category, it’s the clear overall winner.
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